Cemetery · Saint-Paul
Cimetière marin de Saint-Paul
A historic cemetery on the edge of the bay in Saint-Paul, known for its setting and its historic graves. The present cemetery was established in 1788. Archaeological digs outside its walls have uncovered early 19th-century graves. Listed as a historic monument in 2012.
Why it matters
A major place of funerary memory in Saint-Paul, associated with several historical and legendary figures; its setting between the sea and the ramparts (cliff walls) makes it a unique site on the island.
History
The Saint-Paul seaside cemetery was established in 1788 on the bay front. It holds graves linked to the history of the town and the island. Archaeological digs carried out outside its walls have uncovered early 19th-century graves that may belong to enslaved people and/or indentured labourers (engagés), though the conclusions are not definitive. The cemetery is associated in particular with the memory of Charles Leconte de Lisle and with popular tales about Olivier Levasseur, known as La Buse (“the Buzzard”).
Sources (2)
- https://archeologie.culture.gouv.fr/ocean-indien/fr/cimetiere-marin
- https://www.mairie-saintpaul.re/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/06_annexes_PLU_st_paul_approuve_27septembre2012__Edition_juillet2022.pdf
